Kath Wharton, who played for the Warriors' NRLW team and the Kiwi Ferns, has died.
In a post to social media, the team said they were "deeply shocked and saddened" by the 41-year-old's death.
"Beyond her many achievements on the rugby league field, Kath was a genuine, kind and beautiful person with such a big heart for her whānau, rugby league and the people of Northland.
"Our heart goes out to Kath’s husband, their children, friends and whānau during this difficult time."
Rugby League Northland said it was deeply saddened by her death.
"Kath was an exceptional athlete, proudly representing her country in the 2008 and 2013 Rugby League World Cups for the Kiwi Ferns. She also played for Aotearoa in the Maori All Stars Wāhine team in 2019 and later that year, made her debut for the New Zealand Warriors in the NRL Women’s Premiership."
It also highlighted her contribution to the league community as a coach and member of various boards.
"Kath was a humble woman with a kind spirit and a heart devoted to her community. Her passing will leave a profound void in our Rugby League family."
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